A Glorious New Direction

[Marcus Thomas Brody, M! T! B!!]

The path to Genesis was pretty much over, now. Had I found that momentum I was looking for? Nope. And why was that? I was beaten up by Wild Bill Legend and "Super" Benny Starr yet again! That means they had the edge over James and I heading into Genesis. The Elite Tag Team Championships we'd held since Jealousy were theirs to win instead of ours to lose. I'd spent the whole weekend in the Strachon family gym getting a workout using their high-tech equipment. We had virtual reality simulators and monitors for everything. A far shout from the basic stuff used in the UCW Arena and in The Predator's and my dad's gyms. Unfortunately, I was still fairly bummed out from my lack of momentum. I knew I had the tools and the technique but damn it, I needed to psych myself up, and what better way to do that than spending time practising public speaking with Sam's younger son Seth?

Seth had been considered somewhat of a prodigy in his youth. He was only ten years old when his dad hired him as a commentator, interviewer and editor for UCW and boy did he make the most of it. After UCW went under, he was picked up by news outlets and now, at only 31 years old, he was a journalism professor in Bristol and lived with his wife and young children. He came up to the Strachon house every few days to visit Sandy, and now I was living there, he was giving me speech practice to help improve my marketability. He was normally critical and interrupting me mid-practice, but this time, he hadn't butted in so I was passing this promo with flying colours. I couldn't remember much of it, except for the very last part of it:

MTB: ...so WBL, Benny Stars. That's right, I changed the extra 'r' to an 's' since after one ride through the Suplex Machine, that's exactly what you'll be seeing! Because I am The Predator, and you... are... the... prey! Oh bugger...

Seth had his hand pressed against his face and was slouched back in his wheeled computer chair.

Seth Strachon: MTB! That was fantastic... until you said The Predator's catchphrase...

MTB: Sorry, I guess I kind of... sort of... got carried away.

Seth Strachon: Slips happen, MTB. You just have to think about yourself and not others when you're talking. Coming up with your own catchphrase might help.

He's right. All the greats had catchphrases. The Predator had "I am the The Predator and you are the prey," Dan "Dragon" Taylor had "This Dragon breathes fire," "The" Ross Walker has "Better than you," to name a few. I needed one of my own, but what could it be?

MTB: I know, not sure what kind of thing to have, though.

Seth Strachon: Well, perhaps we can discuss this after dinner...?

MTB: Sorry, I can't. Your dad's invited James and I to one of his clubs.

Seth was taken aback so much, he nearly fell off the chair. He looked at me, all flabbergasted.

Seth Strachon: You're going out!? But it's Wednesday and Genesis is Friday! The biggest match of your career. You can't be drinking!

MTB: Oh relax, I don't drink much anyway. I spend most of my time in clubs dancing. Gives me a good workout too.

Seth Strachon: If you say so...

He clearly didn't believe me. He'd grown up in a world where everyone who went out drank copious amounts of alcohol. He'd clearly not been out with me. I was only out to dance. I left Seth's room straight away and navigated my way though the labyrinth that was the hallways of the Chateau de Strachon. I found my way back to my room to find a note and a suit bag on my bed. I picked up the note and read it aloud...

MTB: MTB, I thought I'd get ya this new blazer as a present for making it to ya first Genesis. Ya should wear it tonight. I've told James Stall ya'll meet him outside Universal at 9pm, and Sarge knows ya coming. I'll see ya in there since I've got to meet someone first. Sandy.

He'd actually written "ya" instead of "you." Even his writing was laid back. I grabbed the bag on my bed and unzipped it. Inside was a blazer similar in the navy blue colour and design to the one Sandy had given me before Jealousy. This time, the "MTB" on the back was in silver with a gold frame. That wasn't the only thing in the bag. I peeked in and found a darker navy t-shirt with MTB on the front in the same silver and gold lettering. There was another note attached to it which I quickly read.

MTB: P.S. Here's a prototype of the t-shirt I've put forward to FWF management for possible release. Hope ya like it.

Well, I did. It looked like I had my outfit sorted for the night. Though I decided I'd unveil the t-shirt in the club by unbuttoning the shirt I'd be wearing over it. Tonight was going to be a good night. I could just tell.

***

It was after 9pm when my limo pulled up outside Sandy's club, "Universal." It was still fairly light outside, but the purple neon lights were already switched on. I stepped out, and the wind swept at my blazer. I brushed my hair back and looked around. No sign of James, yet. A tall, muscular guy dressed all in black with spiked up bleach-blond hair took command over the door. His bulky figure bridged the gap between the doors and the expansive line of people outside. They all called him "Sarge" due to his military experience, and the rumours say he'd been kicked out for breaking a new recruit's neck during CQC training. I turned once more and James Stall had finally arrived, sporting a tattered old leather jacket and the scruffiest pair of jeans I'd laid eyes on. He stood by me and took in the neon purple lights and the bustling street of revelers and students behind us.

James Stall: Okay, MTB... so this is that awesome place you told me about?

MTB: Uh-huh. Isn't it a beaut?

There was a pause from James, and he just looked at the place some more, probably admiring the spectacle of it.

James Stall: Oh yeah, very.

MTB: Right-o. Let's go in.

We headed towards the doorway and Sarge turned his head towards us. He squinted for a moment, before warmly embracing me. He let go and shook my hand.

Sarge: MTB! long time no see. Come on in.

MTB: Thanks, Sarge.

He pulled up a black velvet rope and James and I made our way to the door. People at the front of the line were roaring with anger and hurling abuse ar Sarge. As James got near, Sarge put the rope down and blocked him with his hand.

Sarge: Where do you think you're going?

Before James could answer, I caught Sarge's attention.

MTB: It's okay, Sarge. He's my plus one. He's cool.

Sarge pulled up the rope again, and let James through. The anger of the line subsided as we went down the stairs an the classic rock took over. The opening riffs of "Money for Nothing" by Dire Straits greeted us as we made our way to the main area, and I instantly bobbed my head and began singing along. It was dark and purple and gold lighting flickered around the dancefloor. Bars covered an entire wall of the club. The place wasn't quite busy yet, but once all the general admission are let in, this floor would soon be swimming with students and young adults looking for a good ol' time. And when that happened, there was only one place to be, upstairs in the VIP with Sandy, overlooking the whole place. When it got to one of the best parts of the song, James caught my attention. I turned and sang right in his face.

MTB: I want my- I want my- I want my MTB!

See what I did there? Awesome or what?[/i]

James Stall: Marcus this place looks like it blows

MTB: No way mate. It’s just early. Besides, the real party’s upstairs.

Did he just call me Marcus? I'd have thought by now he'd know that annoys me. I turned back and carried on moving to the music.

James Stall: Whatever.

MTB: That’s the spirit.

I led James to a spiral staricase where another man was on guard. He wasn't the tallest of men, but he was bulky. He liked showing off his muscles with tight shirts and jeans. It was either that or because he's from somewhere in the European mainland. He liked waxing his bald head as well, since that thing shined under the lights.

MTB: Nicolai!

I gave the guy a hug. He was always a bit tight with his hugs, though. In fact, it was his hugs that had inspired the MTBearhug. I leaned down and gave Nicolai a kiss on each cheek which he returned. James was probably thinking something was going on here. I mean, he was young and at an age where he probably wouldn't be aware of European customs. I turned to him and looked at him reassuringly.

MTB: It’s an old Russian custom.

He just looked back at me.Nicolai stepped aside to let us up.

Nicolai: Enjoy your evening mein fraun.

We made our way up the stairs as the doors behind us opened and the general public were allowed in. The VIP area was always one of my favourites. There was more going on, and they were better people. You never knew what kind of ruffians were let in the main area. The people in VIP actually danced. All of a sudden, "Rock You Like a Hurricane" by Scorpions hit and I felt a rush of excitement. I slapped James on the back and felt myself starting to move.

MTB: Oh! I love this song! Be back in a moment.

I rushed over to the dancefloor and found myself getting everyone's attention with my footwork. People were cheering and clapping along to me. I soon found myself posing for photos with these random people and signing an autograph or two. I think a couple of people let me finish their drinks as well. I danced and I danced until the end of the song. Next I knew, Soft Cell's "Tainted Love" hit the speakers and I carried on dancing to that. Song after song I danced and danced. The best part was when "Livin' on a Prayer" came on and I did my thing. By the time that finished, the people were cheering and high-fiving me left right and centre. I stepped off the dancefloor, but James wasn't there. I took a moment to look around and there was no sign of him. Before I could go and check in the crowd, a very familiar voice shouted to us from behind me.

: Nice dancing, MTB. I can always count on ya to entertain the clientele.

I turned and at the foot of some more steps was Sandy Strachon, dressed sharp as ever in his black pinstriped suit and open collared white shirt. He came over to us and shook my hand.

MTB: Thanks, Sandy.

Sandy Strachon: Hey, thought you were with James Stall.

MTB: I am. He's vanished somewhere.

Sandy Strachon: He'll turn up. I've got a great place to show you.

Sandy guided me up the stairs into our own box where two sofas sandwiched a table and looked over the entire club. The wall behind us was our own bar, with some busty young blonde was pouring us all Long Island Iced Teas. Sandy returned and placed our glasses down on the table, along with a bottle of wine. I found myself comfortable on the sofa immediately. A moment later, the door opened and in walked a woman, and not just any woman. The most beautiful woman I'd ever laid eyes on. Her rosy voluptuous lips were the cherry on a flawless pale complexion, and her long, shiny, black hair flowed from the top of her head, above green eyes I could stare into for days on end. She wasn't dressed how I'd have expected a girl in a night club to dress, either. No short dresses or anything, just loose pale blue jeans and an Iron Maiden t-shirt. She just smiled, Sandy got to his feet, and hugged her. No way! Was he seeing her? My heart sank. She was perfect and seeing Sandy, who brought her over to our table.

Sandy Strachon: MTB, this is my daughter, Aurora.

Uh-oh. That's even worse. There's no way I could try it on with Aurora STRACHON of all people; Sandy's daughter, and Sam's and Seth's sister. I was so overcome by her beauty, I found myself struggling for words.

MTB: H-h-hi.

I could feel my face burning up. Aurora didn't say a word, she just held a hand up and gave me a shy wave. She looked like that but was shy!? Wow. I could feel butterflies flapping around in my stomach as she sat down next to me, her leg brushing mine. There was an awkward silence until Sandy poured us some wine and opened his yap.

Sandy Strachon: So how was the tour of mainland Europe, Aurora?

Aurora Strachon: It was lovely, dad. Barcelona and Paris were so beautiful. There was some prick on the plane trying to get to first class. Then he was yapping on loud about some Genesis or something, and I think he said something about an MTB...

Her voice was so soft, it felt like I was dreaming, and she just said my name. I took a deep breath and a swig of my wine. She was insanely gorgeous, and seemed so down to earth. I mean, she had an Iron Maiden t-shirt on! I was still silent. Sandy spoke up again.

Sandy Strachon: Was he bald and American and acted like an obnoxious ass?

Aurora nodded. It definitely sounded like she'd been on the same plane as "Super" Benny Starr. It had felt like some time since James Stall had gone to the gents, and I felt like I was burning up so much in here, I needed to get some air. I rose to my feet.

MTB: Going to look for James, I'll be back in a moment.

Before either Sandy or the resplendent Aurora could speak, I'd climbed over the sofa and gone out of the door. I took another deep breath and walked through the club. I say walked, I really mean boogied to the bass line of "Another One Bites the Dust" by Queen. As I got to the door, I ended up thinking about whether I was being silly or not in thinking this, but didn't James' uncle Pain use this as his entrance music at some point?Eventually, I found James outside the toilets. His hair looked as if it had been messed up. I caught his attention and he came over to me. His breathing seemed heavy.

MTB: Where've you been?

James Stall: Oh, just checking a few things out.

MTB: Oh cool. Let's get to Sandy's box.

I led James up the stairs to Sandy's private box. When we walked through the door, Sandy was chatting with Aurora. He soon turned his attention to James and raised his abnormally thick eyebrows. He got to his feet and quickly took James' hand and shook it.

Sandy Strachon: So ya must be James Stall. Nice to meet ya. Ya look nothin' like ya father.

James Stall: Grandfather. I'm Joe's grandson.

Sandy's eyebrows raised some more. The look of surprise on his face made his teeth appear as if they belonged to a rabbit.

Sandy Strachon: Grandson!? Didn't know ol' Joe was that... old.

Sandy and I sat down but James stayed on his feet.

Sandy Strachon: Ya can sit down, ya know. Settee's not gonna bite ya.

James Stall: Thanks.

He set himself down next to Sandy and took a sip of his drink. Sandy was abuzz with excitement.

Sandy Strachon: Ya know, James, ya look nothin' like ya grandad. But from what I've seen, ya can be better than him. I can make sure of it if ya hire me as an agent.

There was a short pause before James came out with an answer.

James Stall: I'll think about it, thanks.

James leaned closer towards the window and surveyed the area. The place had filled up fast with all sorts of people, most of them clearly students, with their jeans and their t-shirts. I tasted my Long Island Iced Tea and found myself shuddering from the strength of the concoction. Sandy chortled.

Sandy Strachon: The first sip's always the worst. It'll grow on ya, MTB. The Long Island Iced Tea is one hell of a drink. Reminds me of when I lived in The Bronx as a teenager. It was there I learned the business, and where I met ya grandad, James.

So that explains his slight hint of a New York accent. Makes sense now, since I knew he was from Weston-Super-Mare near Bristol yet he had no trace of the west country accent.

Sandy Strachon: But yeah, on Friday ya've got ya big match against Starr and Legend. Ya may only be in a tag title match, but if James takes my management ya could both be main-eventing Genesis someday. I can see it now in lights: "MTB vs. Stall: FWF World Championship!" People would pay to see ya both tear the house down. It'd be win-win-win when it comes to the payday!

I lost track of what James and Sandy were talking about, I was too busy looking down at my drink and thinking of this beauty by my side. Aurora didn't say anything either. Whenever I glanced over to her, she was staring at her drink too. I think I caught her looking at me a bit as well. The next thing I knew, James put a hand on the window and stood up hastily, before heading to the door.

James Stall: Back soon. Need to use the bathroom.

And before you could say "Genesis," he was out of the door. Sandy looked bewildered. He took a moment before having a sip from his wine and slouched back. Aurora just stared at her father.

Sandy Strachon: Well, I think it's clear ya carry the team. Hasn't his grandad taught him any manners? Rich ass, huh?

I was confused. Had I missed something? The three of us sat and drank more wine. No one said a word. All you could hear was music from the club until all of a sudden, the music stopped and a raucous commotion was brewing on the floor below.

Sandy Strachon: What the?!

We all looked over the balcony and I made out some of what was going on. James Stall was standing on a bar in the main club area. I think I saw Sarge face down and out cold. Next I knew, James was... James was PISSING on the bar! I looked over at Sandy. His hands were tugging at his hair, his teeth were grinding and his eyes were near-enough popping out. He looked as if he was going to explode. He paced around the area and was grunting incoherently. I think I was able to catch some of what he was saying.

Sandy Strachon: That little bastard! Who does he think he is!? What do I do? UGH! MTB....

He calmed down momentarily and turned to me.

Sandy Strachon: Look after Aurora please. I need to go sort this out.

He pulled a mobile phone out of his suit jacket and hurried out of the room. I found myself alone with Aurora. Our eyes connected and I could feel the butterflies fluttering even more. I'd not even said a word to her directly since she'd got here. My nerves were at an all time high, even higher than when I had my first FWF match on June 9th 2010, when WBL had changed my opponents at the last second and... Wait! I've got the most beautiful girl ever in front of me and I'm thinking about my match!? Thankfully, Aurora spoke first.

Aurora Strachon: You don't talk much, do you?

I moved my mouth to talk but no words came out. It was as if I was impersonating a fish. Aurora just giggled, and brushed her hair back.

Aurora Strachon: You fancy me don't you?

My face was reddening. I could feel the blood rushing to my cheeks as they got hotter and hotter. It was as if my face was having an iron pressed against it, it was that hot. She just smiled at me.

Aurora Strachon: MTB, have you ever kissed a girl?

MTB: N-n-no.

Aurora Strachon: Really? Would you like to kiss me?

Someone please pinch me. Did the most exquisite girl to ever exist just ask me if I wanted to kiss her? My heart was doing backflips, and I found myself with the dryest throat imaginable. Then finally, came the greatest sentence I have ever said:

MTB: Y-y-yes.

Aurora moved her face closer and closer and, although it probably didn't take her long to do that, it felt like an eternity to me. It was as if time had stood still. Next thing I knew, her hands were on my face and my hands had been placed on her waist and our mouths were getting closer, closer, closer until finally, it happened, our lips pressed against each other and a sense of euphoria cloaked me. Was this really happening? Was I dreaming? What if Sandy came back? Her tongue slowly massaged mine and took me totally by surprise. I did all I could to keep up with her. She was that good. I felt like my life was complete. Not even James coming back and pissing on the bar again could spoil this for me. And finally, our lips parted and it was over. I'd finally had my first kiss, and judging from her smile she seemed to like it too.

Aurora Strachon: How was that?

MTB: That was... amazing.

Aurora Strachon: Maybe you won't be so frigid now.

MTB: I guess not.

I felt as if a new-found confidence was now flowing through my veins. I was actually able to string together more than one word to her. I found myself feeling able to talk to a girl! I was a new man.

MTB: So Aurora... what do you do?

Aurora Strachon: I'm a singer.

MTB: In a... let me guess... a metal band?

Aurora laughed, and it was cute. Nothing like her dad's rough belly laugh, hers was as soothing as her voice.

Aurora Strachon: No, you goon. I sing jazz and swing.

MTB: But... what about your t-shirt?

Aurora Strachon: Oh, this? Yeah, I'm a metalhead, but I love Frank Sinatra.

MTB: Ol' blue eyes himself, you say? The old stuff's the best. I don't get this modern crap.

Wow, beautiful, talented, a fabulous kisser, and had awesome taste in music. Had I just met the perfect girl?

Aurora Strachon: You're not like any other guys I've met. You're...

The door slammed shut and we turned our heads. Sandy was back, and his head was dripping with sweat. He stumbled over to the sofas and knocked a bottle of cider all over Aurora. She groaned and left the room without without saying a word. I looked over to Sandy and I could smell his breath from a metre away. I glanced at his right hand and noticed an empty bottle of scotch. My guess is that he'd downed the whole bottle after this stunt that James had pulled. Goodness knows what he'd have done if he knew I'd snogged his daughter.

***

Not much was said for the rest of the night, and that wasn't long. The club had to close early because of what James had done, and Aurora never came back when the cider was spilled on her, and I went to bed unable to stop thinking about her. However, that kiss had given me the confidence boost I needed. The next day was Thursday and Friday comes afterwards, and that meant Genesis was closer than ever! This was the home stretch. I had to work harder than ever today.

Seth had shown me a clip on Fantasywrestling.com, featuring Benny Starr, and it was exactly what Aurora had mentioned the night before. Benny had been filming a scene from his latest movie (seriously, I'm no looker myself but how does someone that ugly get leading roles in romantic films?) and had to get on a plane in coach. I caught a glimpse of Aurora in the background and nearly didn't pay attention to what Benny had to say. I'd heard him earlier in the clip refer to James and I as "the most pathetic excuse for a tag team since The Meds." I turned to Seth, who was watching with me and went off on one.

MTB: Really? Did I just hear that? If that was the case, would we be undefeated as a team? We were Hawaii 5-0 but if you counted the gauntlet at Jea7ousy as the five separate matches that it was, we were 9-0 as a team! And speaking of that gauntlet, we defeated the entire FWF tag division one after another in the same night! If that made us the most pathetic excuse for a tag team since The Meds (and hey, they weren't even that pathetic - Robert Prozac was a former Heavyweight Champion and had been in a Genesis main event, something the so called "Super" Benny Starr can't claim himself) then what made the greatest team ever? Was it the number of tag titles held? Because that would be The Breakfast Table with sixteen! Or the longest reigning? Because that would go to The Twins? Or perhaps the most popular team? Because that would be The Meds. Or could it be the team that was part of a group of warriors who used to "own this place" because that weould be the wWo? Or even the most exciting team on paper, which was the short lived team of James Bohne and Camisado? Or... maybe... it's the team who beat the best? And who defeated all five of those teams in the same night? And who might that be? Oh that's right! James Stall and MTB! The New Direction themselves! And wait... rewind that...

Seth rewound the clip and I heard what he had to say about my victory over WBL. I ran my hands through my hair as a rage built up.

MTB: Did he just call me "daddy's little princess?" Seth?

Seth Strachon: I think he did...

MTB: Seth, please get a camera. I feel something coming.

I shook my head with disgust. I watched the rest of the video as Seth set the equipment up. The video closed just as Seth had every thing set up. I leapt out of my seat and charged to the UCW backdrop, and here I came...

MTB: "Daddy's little princess?" "Daddy's Little Princess!?" You know, I can't stand the attitude people have towards next generation warriors. I'm sick of it. They're all comparing us to our fathers, or our grandfathers, and I've had enough of it! I'm not my fucking father! Yeah, I share a name. Yeah, I'm Marcus Thomas Brody Jr. Yeah, we both have similar in-ring styles, but what sets us apart... is that I've got personality! I like going out, I like partying, I like drinking, I like dancing, no scratch that, I LOVE dancing! I'm no longer Marcus Brody Jr. I'm MTB the party animal! And what's this about family connections and being more talented? I got into FWF on my own laurels! I've wrestled my heart out every time I'm out there! Every time... I earned the Elite Tag Team Championships and how did Starr and Legend 'earn' their shot? By default, that's how. When FWF came back, The New Direction were the only team left. James Bohne and Camisado went back to singles, and the other teams didn't return. How else could someone like Benny Starr, who hadn't won a match for three years, get a shot? It's crazy!

The lights were making my forehead perspire profusely, and my eyes were starting to be forced shut by the salty sweat from my head, so I wiped my face with one of my unnaturally small hands. I took a few breaths, since I hadn't quite grasped the art of talking for a long time, something that Sandy and Sam Strachon had mastered. No one could rant quite like they did.

MTB: We won the titles through talent, effort and determination, something I'm sure the "Starr" and the "Legend" have never even heard of. We're advanced beyond our years. I may only be twenty-two years old, and James may be only nineteen, but we perform like we've got an age of experience. When Benny tried to interfere in my match with WBL? James hit the Shining Wizard on WBL and I got the pin. We outsmarted the so called veterans.

This was it, I was on a roll. What I was saying last time in practice would fit perfectly here, and now, it had hit me. I knew precisely what to say. I moved closer to the camera, my eyes flaring with rage and intensity.

MTB: So Wild Bill Legend, "Super" Benny Stars. That's right, I changed the extra 'r' to an 's' since after one ride through the Suplex Machine, that's exactly what you'll be seeing! Once I'm done with you, the count won't be one, two, three... The count will be...

I paused for effect and began a mock count with my hands.

MTB: M!... T!... B!... Ding... Ding... Ding!

Seth: Aaaand cut. MTB, that... was amazing! You're really talking like a Strachon. And that catchphrase... "The count won't be one, two, three. The count will be MTB!" It's so cool.

MTB: Thanks, man. You've helped me so much this past week. Shame you're going back to your wife after Genesis.

Seth laughed. He didn't laugh like his dad. He didn't laugh like his sister, either. His was more of a geeky, semi-maculine laugh.

Seth Strachon: A shame? You should see my wife. She's hot. I can't wait.

We both shared a laugh over that one. I'd probably be saying the same thing if I was married to his sister. Once that was over, I knew I had to be in the gym the rest of the day.

MTB: Later, Seth.

I kept my promise to myself and the whole afternoon was spent in the gym. I punched bags, I ran the ropes, I dodged dummies, I suplexed sandbags, and I beat numerous opponents in the virtual reality simulator. The machine had you wrestle matches in your mind, and helped put what you did into muscle memory. It hadn't been released yet, but it was a work of genius. After a meal of roast lamb for tea, the entire evening was spent watching plenty of Starr and WBL matches. By the time I went to bed, I knew their arsenals inside-out, and felt as prepared as ever. I may not have had any momentum on TV, but by God, I was ready and I had the momentum.

***

I woke up pretty early on Friday morning, but as I was getting dressed, I found myself burst in on by the darker half of one of the tag teams I'd previously beaten, with purple dungarees and a detective coat on. Bean was singing what must have been planned as a wake-up call.

Bean: Friday! Friday! Genesis is tonight! Everybody's lookin' forward to the big show, big show!!!

MTB: Bean! That's not cool!

I pulled my trousers on in a hurry and looked at Bean with disappointment. Sausage ran in and flung his coat off as if he was some sort of hero slinging his cloak.

Sausage: Oh, sorry there, mate. We thought you'd have been asleep.

There was something unreal about how much he sounded like Michael Caine. I slipped on my MTB t-shirt and turned to them.

MTB: You know, if you were going to wake me up, don't do it by singing Rebecca Black, no matter how better Bean's lyrics are.

I had to give him credit for that. The lyrics to that song were so embarrassingly bad.

MTB: So what brings you here? You can't just be here to wake me up?

Sausage: Oh no, mate. Mr. Strachon's hired us to protect you?

MTB: Protect me? But I've beaten you both a few times.

Sausage: Well, we've got these.

He swung his belt around to reveal a holster with what appeared to be a silver gun in it. Both him and Bean pulled them out and pointed them around.

Sausage: .44 Magnum, Sandy bought them for us. Beats a standard police pistol any day. The most powerful handgun in the world. It could blow you head clean off.

Bean: Bang bang, I shot you down, bang -

BANG! The gun went off and narrowly missed me. I looked behind me with horror to see a hole in the wall. That could've been me. Sausage snatched the gun from Bean's hand and sternly shook his head. Bean waddled off out of the room. Sausage turned his head to me.

Sausage: That was lucky. Do you feel lucky? I do. Sandy would've killed us if Bean had killed you. Now let's go, Sandy's got a surprise for you.

What a start to the day. I'd had a near-death experience, surely that didn't bode well for me. Then again, the bullet missed me. Lady Luck surely had to be on my side. There was no time for breakfast, I could eat the arena, or should I say stadium? Genesis was at Old Trafford once again. I made my way outside, led by The Breakfast Table to find Sandy, Sam, Seth... and Aurora waiting outside, and oh my! What was Aurora wearing? She had a short black skirt showing off her perfect longish-looking legs and her top, her top was a tight black vest showing off a stomach so toned, it put the FWF roster to shame. I was so awestruck, it was a good thing I had my title belt with me to hide... umm... something. Sandy was smiling this time, as if Wednesday night had never happened. What was going on? Why were they just standing there? And then, from the distance, I could hear something. Something buzzing and whirring. It was coming from the sky. I looked up and there, in the distance, was a helicopter getting closer and closer. When it got even closer, I could make out that it was white and had a red stripe along it. It landed and Sandy yelled over the noise of the blades.

Sandy Strachon: Surprise!

Was this what I thought it was? I remembered seeing it in the car park outside Old Trafford when I went to see Genesis V back in 2008, and I could remember being told a story when I was being trained by Predator last year. Sandy motioned for me to get in. I stepped into the helicopter and sat down in comfortable, leather seats you wouldn't expect in a helicopter. The rest of the Strachons joined me and, to my absolute luck, Aurora sat next to me, and my belt was kept firmly on my lap to avoid embarrassment. Bean was in a bit of a sulk. Damn right he should have been, he nearly shot my face off, and worse, did a cover of "Friday!" Sausage sat on the other side of me. Thankfully, the whirling of the blades could hardly be heard once the door had closed and I could hear myself think at last. Sandy clapped his hands to get our attention.

Sandy Strachon: Three years ago, Genesis was held at Old Trafford, a place they call "The Theatre of Dreams." To honour the first Genesis of MTB here, I'm giving him an experience that I gave one of the greatest of all time on that day. Three years ago, The Predator made his journey to the Theatre of Dreams in this very helicopter. And ya remember what happened at Genesis V, don't ya?

I humbly nodded. I figured James Stall wouldn't get getting a ride after what he did, pissing on a bar at Sandy's club, and whatnot.

MTB: He beat Pain in the main event. I remember, I was front row.

Sandy Strachon: Exactly!

His smile was warm, it was as if his own son was in the main event of Genesis. I was far from it. I was only defending the tag titles, even if both my opponents had competed at Genesis, WBL in fact main-eventing Genesis IV back in 2007.

Sandy Strachon: Now strap in everyone.

Everyone fastened their seatbelts as fast as they could. I felt a lurching in my stomach as the helicopter rose from the ground. I never truly appreciated how big the Strachon Estate was. His mansion looked like a matchbox on blanket, that's how large it was. As we moved away, everything got smaller: the house, the pool, the gardens, and soon it was all fields as we followed a railway line. Soon after the lush green fields turned to building after building after building, and then... in the distance was a familiar set of red and white seats inside a red-brick structure. I caught a glimpse of a ring in the centre of the pitch. Old Trafford itself was in sight. The production lorries were in the car park, but not many cars were there yet. The stadium got closer and closer as the helicopter lowered down until finally, we touched down. The pilot opened the door for us and we filed out. I may have accidentally touched Aurora's leg as I got out of my seat. She didn't complain about it so she mustn't have minded. Her skin was so soft and smooth from what I felt. Ah, must focus on the big match. I took a moment to stare at the great Old Trafford. One side of it was glass and had "Manchester United" in giant red letters standing out proudly. Near that was a mural showing the history of Manchester United. So this was the place they call "The Theatre of Dreams"? We passed the statues of Sir Matt Busby, Dennis Law, George Best and Sir Bobby Charlton and made our way through a tunnel. We passed through a fews doors and we were inside. We stopped when it got to a crossroads of sorts and the silence finally had been broken.

Sam Strachon: Right, changing rooms are in front, visitors go to the right and I commentators to the left. Good luck MTB.

Sam patted me on the back and walked off down a corridor to the left. Next, Seth shook my hand.

Seth Strachon: Hope you win MTB.

MTB: Thanks man, you've been a real help to me.

Seth Strachon: No problem.

Then the unexpected happened, Aurora wrapped her arms around me in a nervous embrace. I could feel my heart racing as her body pressed against me. She soon let go. If only that could have lasted forever.

Aurora Strachon: Hope you win, MTB.

She smiled and stepped back. Sandy looked astounded. He came up to me and shook my hand before giving me a hug himself.

Sandy Strachon: I don't know what it is, but my ya're talented. I've never seen Aurora hug anyone before who wasn't me. But let me tell ya, good luck tonight. Ya're gonna have quite the burden tonight. Wrestling in front of over 80,000 fans against two established rich men with an unreliable partner. But ya have an ability that means ya can do it. See ya later.

And with that, Sandy shook my hand again and headed to the right with Seth and Aurora, leaving me with Sausage and Bean behind me. Sausage put a hand on my shoulder. Bean was slightly ahead checking out the classic Manchester United memorabilia in glass cases along the walls.

Sausage: This is it, mate. All you have is the path ahead. We'll stick by you in case you get attacked by WBL and/or Benny Starr.

MTB: Cheers, man.

We moved further along the corridor towards a pale wooden door leading to the changing rooms. There were two of them. I saw my name on a list on one to the right, labelled "Home". I entered and saw wooden lockers, benches and even a giant hot tub. There was room for many warriors to change in here. I found a secluded corner and set down my bag and my title belt. It would be surreal to be in the same changing room that legendary footballers like Eric Cantona, Ole Gunnar Solksjaer and Ryan Giggs had dressed. I quickly changed into my gear and slipped my t-shirt and blazer back on, and made my way outside, followed by The Breakfast Table. I'd decided to take a stroll around Old Trafford and check out the memorabilia and maybe even test out the ring. I turned the corner towards the players' tunnel and saw two figures ahead of me. Both were in suits. One was tall and had greying brown hair and had a cane, and the other was short in comparison, stocky and had slicked back black hair. It just had to be The Predator and my dad, Marcus Brody. Neither had noticed me, although I could hear what they were saying.

The Predator: You know, Marcus. This place brings back memories.

Marcus Brody: I still can't forget your match with Pain. When you won your last title and celebrated with Pain and Dan.

The Predator: Yeah, I miss it. It's weird not having Genesis with Dan, Pain or I wrestling. Moreso without Dan. To think it's been over a year already since we lost him.

Marcus Brody: At least he lives on through his son.

He stopped as soon as he said the word 'son.'

The Predator: What's up? Still upset about MTB's association with Sandy?

Marcus Brody: Can you not call him MTB, please. It's Marcus Junior.

Shit, they were talking about me. I moved a little closer, hopefully not close enough to get noticed. My dad's face seemed older than I remembered it. What on earth was his problem? Shouldn't he be happy with the success I'd had since I started working with him? I'd beaten WBL and took the World Champion to the limit!

The Predator: Listen, Marcus. He's making quite the name for himself, and you should support him. He's got a very important match tonight.

Marcus Brody: Sorry, you just don't get it.

The Predator: Get what? Why do you hate Sandy so much? If it's because he screwed you out of the title a few times, get over it. That was twelve year ago...

I didn't hear what my dad had said back to The Predator. He just turned and walked down the tunnel. He walked past me before stopping and looking at me. I glared back at him and neither of us said a word. I walked off towards the pitch. I passed Predator and, unlike my father, he nodded to me and spoke.

The Predator: Good luck tonight.

MTB: Thanks.

Wow. I never expected that. It felt like a passing of the torch. Three years ago, he had his big moment in this very stadium, and with that it was as if he was telling me I'm the new Predator! I carried on to the ring and checked out the view. Later that night all of these seats would be filled and hopefully this crowd of 80,000 people would be chanting 'MTB' during my match. I couldn't wait. I danced down the aisle and slid into the ring under the green ropes. I bounced off them to test them out. They were the perfect support. Not too slack and not tight enough to rip two thirds of your ear off. The canvas felt strong as well and it didn't feel like it had too much friction. After trying out my knee-slide, I left the ring and found the place where I'd sat three years ago. I hopped over the barricade and sat down, looking upon things the way I had at Genesis V. I could remember the start of it quite well:

MTB:In the beginning, there was a fantasy. The fantasy became a dream and the dream became a reality. On this night, boys will become men. On this night, men will become warriors. On this night, warriors will become legends. And on this night, The fantasy... will be lived. Alliances will be formed, friends will turn to enemies. This is the fight of their lives. This is the defining moment of respect and passion, and this is when FWF will finally take you in The New Direction.

How fitting it was. Tonight, I'd be showing "Super" Benny Starr and Wild Bill Legend that I'm more than just some boy who only got here through "family connections." I don't want to live off my father's legacy; a legacy that was only relevant in UCW. What did he do in FWF? Helped with an unsuccessful invasion, was Hardcore champion for three weeks, held the tag titles for less than a month, and managed The Predator. How many World Champions had he beaten in FWF? How many times had he taken "The" Ross Walker to the limit? How many Genesis main eventers had he beaten? I'd been one half of the FWF Elite Tag Team Champions for eight months! I'd beaten The Devil, I'd beaten Prozac, I'd beaten Couch Potato, I'd beaten James Bohne, I'd beaten Camisado, I'd beaten Christian Lee, I'd beaten Sah'ta Thor, I'd beaten WBL already! Tonight, whether James Stall and I can get on or not after what he did to Sandy's club, I intend to beat WBL again. I intend to beat Benny Starr. I intend to skip the man and warrior stages and go from boy to legend. I intended to defend my title. I intended to start the road to fulfilling my dream at "The Theatre of Dreams" itself. I intended to take FWF back into The New Direction- a glorious new direction, in fact! I intended to show them all that I am MTB!